Final answer:
A nurse assessing a patient with chronic emphysema should expect symptoms such as shortness of breath, chronic cough, wheezing, cyanosis, and decreased lung function.
Step-by-step explanation:
When assessing a patient with chronic emphysema, a nurse should expect several signs and symptoms. These may include:
Shortness of breath: Patients with chronic emphysema often have difficulty breathing, especially during physical exertion.
Chronic cough: Coughing is a common symptom of emphysema, typically caused by cigarette smoking.
Wheezing: Patients with emphysema may experience wheezing, particularly during expiration.
Cyanosis: In severe cases, patients may have a bluish discoloration of the skin due to low oxygen levels.
Decreased lung function: Emphysema causes damage to the alveoli, leading to impaired gas exchange and reduced lung function.
It is important for the nurse to assess and monitor these symptoms, as well as provide appropriate interventions and support for the patient.